April is Autism Awareness Month. Local anthropologist Yvonne Wan (MSc) and two local businesses, That Guys Pizza and Frost Free Grip Mug, are teaming up to help raise awareness and research funds towards autism.

Autism is a neurological disorder where individuals are characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication, as well as by unique strengths and differences. There are different types of autism, which varies according to each autistic individual.

“Autism Spectrum Disorder affects over 3 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide,” said Wan. “Autism now affects one in 68 children and one in 42 boys. Autism figures are on the increase and are one of the fastest-growing developmental disorders in the U.S. What this means is that autism is becoming increasingly relevant to society and it is no longer an issue we can ignore.”

Michael Schmidt, the owner of That Guy’s Pizza in Fountain Hills, is a proud employer of diversity within the workforce. He recently appointed Kellen Washum, a high-functioning local autistic man, to handle the social media marketing for his restaurant.

“Kellen has been doing great on the job,” Schmidt said. “He has helped our restaurant increase its brand awareness and lead generation by posting daily messages online to help the locals learn more about our menu and services.

“Kellen has received a lot of warm support from members of our community both offline and online. We hope to further our support towards autism by launching a special fundraising campaign at our restaurant this month with the help of local anthropologist, Yvonne Wan, and local beer mug maker Geoff Mott, who are keen to back this meaningful social and community cause.”

The fundraising event has two objectives; to raise autism awareness within society and the local community and to raise funds toward Arizona State University’s Autism/Asperger’s Research Program.

During the month of April, customers can purchase a beer or soft drink at the restaurant with a That Guys Pizza Frost Free Grip mug. The Frost Free Grip mug is the only glass mug with an insulated handle. Straight out of the freezer the grip isn’t cold, wet or slippery. The mug is $19.95 and all profits go to support Arizona State University’s Autism/Asperger’s Research Program.

In addition, customers will receive 15 percent off their food order if they wear an official autism awareness t-shirt in the restaurant during Autism Awareness Month.

“I am grateful Mike at That Guys Pizza has hired me and has confidence in my ability to do the job well,” said Washum. “I am also touched by the team’s initiative in organizing this fundraising campaign during Autism Awareness Month. I hope the people in Fountain Hills will support this fundraiser so that the research program can achieve more in helping us understand the condition more and help others like me.”

That Guys’ Pizza is located at 16948 E. Shea Blvd. Suite 104, next to Circle K. The Frost Free Grip mug is an online business found at frostfreegrip.com.